“Solar cells add cost and weight to cars, and it’s unclear how effective they can be in the real world.”

Hyundai is working on a second-generation solar roof that would be semi-transparent to help light the car’s cabin.

The solar-roof equipped Sonata will be on sale in North America and Korea. Hyundai said it had no plans to sell it in other regions.

No price for the hybrid passenger car equipped with a solar roof has been given by Hyundai.

In the UK sales of low emission vehicles, including hybrids, fell for the first time in more than two years, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), released last month.

The SMMT blamed confusing policies and “premature” removal of subsidies for such hybrids, as factors in the drop of sales.

Hyundai is not the first car manufacturer to use solar panels on a vehicle. The sun-powered charging systems are available as an option on the Toyota Prius, and the luxury Karma Revero is also available with one.

In addition, Dutch start-up Lightyear is working on an electric car that uses solar panels on its bonnet and roof to help charge the vehicle’s batteries.

The Lightyear One car is expected to cost about €149,000 (£137,000) when it goes on sale in 2021.

About Us

Plug In Solar began as a venture to provide for the growing demand for Do It Yourself (DIY) Solar Systems, without the need for installers, MCS or FiT forms. Just simple Plug and Play Solar, without the need for qualifications to install. After growing demand (and shipping many of our systems all over the globe) we have now extended to provide alternative energy sources, off grid solutions and ancillary equipment. Please browse the website to find out more about our innovative Plug In Solar products.